INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO OPERATE AT 100% CAPACITY FROM MARCH 27

(The Quiver): Union Minister of Civil Aviation Jyotiraditya Scindia said international commercial, flights slated to be restarted from March 27 after a two-year hiatus, will operate at full capacity in a major boost to airlines. Scindia made the announcement during the Question Hour in Rajya Sabha as the Upper House met for the second part of the Budget Session.

“All regular international flights will operate in 100 per cent capacity by March 27 as the coronavirus situation in India has improved now,” Scindia said.

The government banned international flights on March 23, 2020 as a countermeasure against the spread of Covid-19 pandemic. The initial ban, imposed for two weeks initially, has been extended many times since.

However, special international flights were subsequently started under bilateral air bubble agreements between India and 35 countries. Allowing airlines to operate at 100% capacity bodes well from consumers’ point of view too as it will help soften fares.

The ministry in a recent announcement said, “The government has decided to resume scheduled commercial international passenger services to/from India from 27.03.2022. International operations shall be subject to strict adherence to Ministry of Health guidelines for international travel.